National ACE, Carolinas AAPI Business Alliance, and Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce Host Small Business Roundtable Focused on Economic Growth, Capital, and Innovation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 17, 2026
PRESS CONTACT
Phuong Nguyen
pnguyen@nationalace.org
National ACE, Carolinas AAPI Business Alliance, and Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce Host Small Business Roundtable Focused on Economic Growth, Capital, and Innovation
[April 17, 2026, Charlotte, North Carolina] – The National Asian Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE), in collaboration with the Carolinas AAPI Business Alliance (CABA) and Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce (CAACC) convened small business owners, policymakers, and community leaders for a Small Business Roundtable at Wells Fargo’s Corporate Offices in Charlotte. The gathering created opportunities for proactive dialogue on advancing growth, addressing key challenges and creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
North and South Carolina’s Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) business community plays an important role in the region’s economy and culture. These businesses anchor our neighborhoods, drive innovation, and create thousands of jobs for all Carolinians. The roundtable focused on strengthening that foundation by ensuring business owners have streamlined access to the capital, technical assistance, and resources they need to scale. By fostering a direct dialogue between community leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, the session aimed to remove barriers to growth and celebrate the immense contributions of small businesses in the region.
“Charlotte and the Carolinas are emerging as powerful centers of entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic opportunity. Through today’s roundtable, we gain valuable insight into the real challenges and opportunities facing small business owners, from access to capital and workforce development to adopting new technologies like AI and navigating growth in a rapidly changing economy,” said Chiling Tong, President & CEO of National ACE. “National ACE is proud to partner with CABA and CAACC to elevate the voices of entrepreneurs across the Carolinas and help build a stronger future for small businesses.”
“We are honored to partner with National ACE as a local co-host and grateful for the support of our state and local governments,” said Dr. John Chen, Chairman of CAACC. “Together, we are helping transform our often insular community into a more connected and cohesive force, with a strong focus on uplifting all.”
“When entrepreneurs come together, they do more than build businesses, they inspire one another, share ideas, create opportunity, and strengthen entire communities,” said Michael Wang, President of CABA. “Today’s roundtable is a reminder that collaboration is one of the greatest drivers of economic growth, and when we work together, we can create new pathways to success for small businesses across the Carolinas.”
The event featured notable attendees and speakers, including North Carolina Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley; State Senator Brad Overcash (District 43); State Representative Laura Budd (District 103); Charlotte City Council Member At-Large Dimple Ajmera; Mark Jerrell, Chair of the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners; Mike Arriola, North Carolina District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration; and Melissa Lindler, South Carolina District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Key topics raised by small business owners included access to capital, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and education into business practices, and workforce development.
“Today was a great discussion with local leaders, entrepreneurs, and the AAPI business community focused on workforce development, AI literacy, access to capital, and responsible technology policy,” said Katherine Wong, Chief Strategy Officer, ProdZenAI. “I am excited to continue to find solutions and connect businesses to resources.”
“As a business owner it’s important to know what is happening in our state and communities,” said Lynn Cao, Owner of AIM Beauty Academy. “I’m glad that we have the opportunity to converse with elected officials and create connections with everybody, especially other members of our community.”
This roundtable is part of National ACE’s ongoing commitment to support entrepreneurs and advance policies that help small businesses grow and compete in today’s economy.
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About National ACE:
National ACE’s mission is to serve as a strong advocate of AAPI and all small business interests and positive change on issues that enhance and advance the goals and aspirations of business owners, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders. National ACE supports policies and programs that strengthen small businesses, expand economic opportunity, and foster the next generation of entrepreneurs and executives. Learn more at www.nationalace.org.
About CABA: The Carolinas AAPI Business Alliance (CABA) is dedicated to building a thriving business ecosystem for all, including Asian American and Pacific Islander entrepreneurs and professionals across the Carolinas. Our mission is to champion economic growth, cultural exchange, and equitable opportunities for the Carolinas business community. Through education, advocacy, and engagement, CABA is committed to breaking barriers, fostering innovation, and driving long-term impact. Learn more at https://www.cabausa.org/
About CAACC: The Carolinas Asian-American Chamber of Commerce (CAACC) is a leading voice for Asian businesses in the greater Charlotte region. We foster collaboration within the community and across the Carolinas to advance commerce, culture, and connection. Through excellence in business, education, volunteerism, and public service, we champion initiatives that strengthen our community and preserve our cultural heritage. Learn more at https://caacc.com/